Who Cassius is
Cassius sees Caesar's growing power with envy rather than the admiration shown by Rome's cheering crowds. He remembers saving Caesar from drowning and resents seeing a physically vulnerable man treated like a god.
His sharp way of speaking reveals both his cleverness and his bitterness toward Caesar. Where others see a victorious leader, Cassius sees a man whose authority they need not accept.
What Cassius wants
Cassius wants Caesar removed, but he knows the plot needs someone whose name carries public trust. He turns to Marcus Brutus, who fears kingship and cares deeply about the Roman republic.
Cassius flatters Brutus and reminds him that his ancestor drove out Rome's last kings. He also arranges forged letters that appear to come from citizens urging Brutus to act.
Cassius and the others in the story
Cassius brings Brutus into the conspiracy, but Brutus takes charge when the conspirators meet at his house. Their disagreement over Mark Antony exposes a difference in how they approach the plot.
Cassius wants Antony killed too, because he is Caesar's close friend and could threaten their plans. Brutus refuses, and Cassius gives way despite his unease about leaving Antony alive.
A best-known line
“The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, But in ourselves, that we are underlings.”
Questions
Who is Cassius in Julius Caesar?
Cassius is an envious senator who helps organize the conspiracy against Caesar.
Why does Cassius need Brutus?
He needs Brutus's respected name to give the plot support beyond his own resentment.
How does Cassius persuade Brutus?
He appeals to Brutus's love of the republic through flattery, family history and forged appeals from Roman citizens.